US President Barack Obama has apologised after referring to California Attorney General Kamala Harris as 'the best-looking attorney general in the country'. The White House confirmed the apology, stating Obama recognised that women should not be judged on appearance. The comment has ignited a fierce debate over sexism and free speech in US media.
Conservative commentator Eric Golub of the Washington Times defended Obama, arguing the remark showed the president was human. However, Jennifer Rubin of the Washington Post criticised the backlash as 'stark raving mad', suggesting both left and right overreacted. In contrast, Amanda Marcotte of Slate argued that even 'benevolent' compliments reinforce female secondary status, citing research on benevolent sexism.
Feminist blog Jezebel supported the apology, with Katie JM Baker stating women endure enough unsolicited attention. Robin Abcarian of the Los Angeles Times called the comment 'wolfish' rather than sexist, while colleague Patt Morrison highlighted the dilemma women face in deflecting inappropriate compliments without being labelled humourless.
Dan Amira of New York Magazine noted Obama has complimented many officials' looks, including men, suggesting an 'equal-opportunity flatterer'. CNN contributor Ruben Navarrette Jr criticised the media coverage as disproportionate, accusing the 'grievance lobby' of selective outrage due to Obama's political alignment.
